13 October, Tokyo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will show a total of 29 passenger car models (including 15 show specials), the eco-friendly GDI engine series, the GDI SIGMA Series low-consumption powertrain and other advanced technologies at the 33rd Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the public from 23 October through 3 November.

Adopting a "Smart & Ecology" theme for the Show, the Mitsubishi Motors' cars and technologies on display demonstrate the company's committed and forward-looking approach to car building for the 21st century.

Mitsubishi Motors continues to be guided by the corporate policy of winning enduring brand loyalty by providing excellence in product and service. For the 33rd Tokyo Motor Show, the company has adopted a "Smart & Ecology" theme that advocates people- and environment-friendly cars and technologies, as it proposes a new type of car for the 21st century that offers fun-to-drive and easy-to-use qualities for one and all. Exhibits focus on the Mitsubishi SUW series--the core series in the company's passenger car lineup--and the PAJERO series, now more competitive than ever with the recent launch of the New PAJERO. Exhibits demonstrating Mitsubishi Motors' advanced technological capabilities include the GDI eco-engine, production of which has now topped 600,000 units, and the GDI SIGMA Series powertrain that maximizes the superior characteristics of the GDI engine.

Mitsubishi Motors at TMS is on the Internet from Wednesday,October 20
http://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/MOTORSHOW/
(Japanese text only)

Passenger Car Section
Mitsubishi Motors presents a comprehensive lineup of 29 distinctive and attractive cars that meet the requirements of the age and the expectations of owners.

• SUW Advance--a concept car which adds the concepts and ideals of Smart Design and Ecology Conscious to Mitsubishi Motors' Smart Utility Wagon (SUW) philosophy; SUW Compact--a proposal for a next-generation town car; and SUW Active--a sporty utility vehicle that offers superior utility and all-round performance. Also on display are the new DION and PISTACHIO additions to the company's current SUW series, as well as models from the company's Sporty & Sedan and Big Small minicar series.
• Another corner is devoted to the company's best-selling PAJERO series, with just-released PAJERO Long Body and Short Body models on display.
• On display in the Motor Sport corner are the PAJERO RALLY, scheduled to compete in the Paris-Dakar 2000, and the LANCER EVOLUTION VI Rally, which is competing so successfully in the 1999 World Rally Championship.
• A number of GDI engine-powered production cars such as the DIAMANTE, will be on display in the production model corner.

1. Concept
   The development brief called for a car that offers roomy accommodation for five adults, returns super-low fuel consumption, and has worldwide appeal. Primarily for family use, it caters to all situations from local shopping trips to taking friends and family on long trips and excursions, while offering superior levels of utility and safety and returning superior mileage.
2. Design
   Characterized by a soft-shape silhouette, with the cabin tapering at the rear and truncated overhangs with the wheels placed at the corners the exterior styling projects a reassuring look of stability.
   The interior features a people-friendly design, the instrumentation being designed for maximum ease of use, with displays located for maximum visibility and legibility.
3. Ecology
   (1) GDI-HEV powertrain
   
   SUW Advance is powered by a compact and economical hybrid system that brings together a high-efficiency GDI engine, small-capacity motor-generator unit and lithium-ion batteries, mated to a CVT. In the Japanese 10-15 urban driving mode, it returns fuel consumption of just 31.5 km/liter. Integrated control of GDI engine, motor and CVT gives the driver a choice of power modes. In Power mode, the vehicle delivers class-beating dynamic performance.
   
   The powertrain also uses an interactive Eco-drive Advice System. This system monitors and analyzes the way the driver operates his vehicle and provides appropriate advice about accelerator and brake operation to achieve better fuel economy.
   
   (2) Eco-friendly lightweight body with recyclable structure
   
   SUW Advance uses a lightweight body that weighs just 980kg. This is the result of optimization and rationalization of the structure; use of aluminum in the hood, doors, rear gate and suspension; and use of plastic resin in the fenders and other exterior panels. Naturally, careful attention has been given to structural integrity and crash safety requirements.
   
   The body also achieves 90% recyclability with aluminum and plastic materials for individual component parts being carefully selected to facilitate disassembly and dismantling.
   
   (3) Aerodynamics
   
   SUW Advance boasts a slippery drag coefficient of just 0.28. This stems from the cabin design that tapers to the rear to optimize body airflow and from drag-reducing features that include a grille with opening/closing louver, concealed wipers, covered rear wheel covers, flat underbody cover, and a two-stage diffuser designed into the rear underside.
   
   (4) Run-flat tires: low resistance, quiet
   
   The run-flat tires use a special silica-carbon compound that reduces rolling resistance, while an exclusive tread pattern provides superior water removal performance and handling stability, as well as reducing noise.
   
   (5) ITS boosts efficiency
   
   SUW Advance sports a number of the latest Intelligent Transport System features that contribute to higher operating efficiency and energy saving. These include Electronic Toll Collection, which eliminates the need to stop and move off again at tollbooths, and the latest car navigation system, which provides optimal route guidance to avoid congestion.
4. Safety
   (1) Active safety-enhancing support systems
   
   SUW Advance is equipped with Mitsubishi's Lane Departure Warning system, which uses a CCD video camera mounted in the rearview mirror to monitor the dividing lines on the road. Should the driver diverge from his lane, the system alerts the driver with an audible warning, causes the steering wheel to vibrate and if necessary also applies a correctional steering torque.
   
   SUW Advance is also fitted with a high-frequency radar system that monitors the distance to, and velocity at which the vehicle approaches, obstacles in front and assists the driver in decelerating his vehicle. The vehicle also helps the driver watch his rear. A Side & Rear Monitor System uses a CCD video camera mounted in the rear of the body to monitor vehicles approaching from behind when changing lanes and to provide a clear picture on the dash display when reversing.
   
   The use of water-repellent glass and side mirrors with hydrophilic, aspheric lenses also improve visibility and field of view.
   
   (2) Passive safety: RISE safety body
   
   SUW Advance uses Mitsubishi's RISE (Realized Impact Safety Evolution) body structure that combines energy-absorbing front and rear sections with a strong, rigid occupant cell to offer superior occupant safety in a crash. Meeting worldwide crash safety standards and requirements, the RISE body provides excellent omnidirectional protection.
   
   Pedestrian safety also receives careful attention. To protect non-occupants, the body structure places as many strength-giving members as possible inside the shell. An impact-cushioning space is provided between engine and hood, while the soft-design bumper also mitigates injury.
   
   (3) Other hi-tech safety measures
   
   Smart SRS airbags offer enhanced protection, inflating in the optimum mode for the type of crash as well as the physique and seated position of the occupant.
   
   In the event of a crash, a Mayday system determines the extent of damage to the vehicle, and communicates this information together with details of the vehicle location to the Control Center.
   
   An ISO-FIX-compliant child restraint system facilitates the task of anchoring a child seat.
5. Packaging and utility
   At 3,880-mm long, 1,695-mm wide and 1,505-mm high, the compact dimensions of the body belie the generous accommodation space for five adults that results from lowering the flat and wide floor as far as possible.
   
   Access to and from the vehicle is facilitated by the wide-opening "double doors", by the absence of a traditional center pillar and by the 600-mm hip point, which also allows a natural seated posture.
   
   The two-way tailgate opens normally for loading of suitcases and other large items but also features a lower panel that slides upwards to provide convenient access for shopping bags and other small items.
   
   Located on the same rails, the front and rear seats can be slid and tipped forward to provide a cavernous luggage space capable of taking a bicycle, wheelchair or other large items.
6. Convenience features
   An IC card provides keyless entry, restricted to recognized drivers. It can be pre-programmed with destination details to run the navigation system.
   
   The recessed Easy Access door handles pop out at a touch and are shaped for easy operation.
   
   The driver can instruct the Voice Command System to operate various vehicular functions.
   
   Voice Guidance provides the driver with navigation information as well as assistance in operating the vehicle.
   
   The Center Multi-display in the middle of the dashboard provides the driver with information related to the navigation, climate control and in-car entertainment systems. Switches and controls are consolidated in the Multi-joystick, which is also used to control the Multi-display. The Head-level Display recessed in the top of the dashboard provides the driver with speedometer, warning lamp and other information on the operating status of the vehicle.

1. Concept
   SUW Compact is a proposal for a next-generation town car for the 21st century based on the Smart Utility Wagon concept. The development brief called for the creation of a "smart urban runner": a compact SUW combining excellent response and nimble performance with low fuel consumption, and offering generous occupant space and high levels of safety in a compact body.
2. Design
   The exterior styling was developed to a "smart and active runner" theme. With a wheel at each corner and arch-motif fenders, the highly distinctive, squat lines potently project the kind of agility to be expected of a SUW.
   
   Smart Design is the keyword for the interior. Located in the center of the dashboard and sandwiched by convenient tray moldings, the novel instrument panel offers excellent legibility. The fender arch motif is repeated in the front door armrest and quarter trim, stamping the interior with a distinct identity.
3. Ecology
   (1) GDI--ASG powertrain: clean with super low fuel consumption
   
   SUW Compact uses Mitsubishi's GDI--ASG low-consumption powertrain. This marries the new Automatic Stop & Go idling system--that cuts off the idling engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it automatically when ready to move off--with a new 1.1-liter GDI engine.
   
   Regenerative braking brings further improvements in fuel efficiency as improved alternator control enables the system to use kinetic energy released when the vehicle decelerates to supplement the battery power. GDI-ASG makes restarting really simple. With the shift lever still in neutral, the driver only has to press the clutch pedal and disengage the clutch to restart the engine after the ASG system has stopped it at idling (for which the vehicle must be at rest, the shift lever in neutral and the clutch engaged).
   
   Excellent aerodynamics also contribute to the vehicle's outstanding fuel efficiency. While employing short and semi-tall proportions, the tapered cabin and optimization of rear spoiler and side airdams realize a Cd of just 0.30.
   
   All this makes SUW Compact a very clean and low-consumption vehicle that returns class-topping fuel mileage for a domestic gasoline car of 26 km/liter in the Japanese 10-15 urban driving mode, and meets the Japanese 2000 Emissions Requirements.
   
   (2) Extensive environmental measures
   
   Eco-friendly features include extensive use of recyclable materials, of lead- and asbestos-free materials, the use of a CFC-substitute refrigerant, and the replacement of CFC foam materials in the seats.
4. Safety
   (1) RISE safety body
   
   SUW Compact uses Mitsubishi's RISE (Realized Impact Safety Evolution) body that combines energy-absorbing front and rear sections with a strong, rigid occupant cell to offer omnidirectional protection for occupants in a crash.
   
   (2) SRS airbags, side airbags
   
   Fitted as standard, SRS airbags for driver and front passenger supplement three-point ELR seatbelts in providing frontal impact protection. Housed in the seats, side airbags deploy to protect occupants in a lateral impact.
   
   (3) Child safety
   
   Provision is made for securely anchoring a child seat in place. Anti-trapping power windows prevent children and others from accidentally injuring fingers.
5. Packaging
   SUW Compact squeezes maximum occupant space from its trim 3,580-mm long, 1,685-mm wide and 1,515-mm high dimensions. The fender design assures excellent front visibility and with the truncated overhangs front and rear realizes excellent maneuverability, the 4.4-meter turning circle making it ideal for use about town.
   
   The 590-mm hip point height allows a natural seated posture and enables entry and exit without the need for athletic contortions. The low belt line enables a large glazing area to realize an interior that is open and airy.

1. Concept
   "Stress-free all-round sport utility vehicle" was the development theme for the SUW Active. Providing generous interior accommodation that allows family and friends to travel together in comfort. SUW Active also has the kind of all-round performance that enables it to cope nimbly with any road or traffic situation.
2. Design
   The exterior styling was developed to a "new-taste, all-round utility silhouette" theme and the design originates from a totally new perspective and sets it apart from both sedans and Japanese RVs.
   
   The stylish body is jacked up slightly and the aggressively styled wheels shod with 16-inch tires are placed at the corners of the body to realize a very distinctive exterior. The novel design places the classy cabin on a lower body and front section that project a distinctly cross-country flavor.
   
   "Versatility interior" set the theme for the development of SUW Active's interior, the aim being to accommodate flexibly and cleverly a wide variety of uses. Tastefully coordinated in a brilliant orange, gray and silver color scheme, the interior is characterized by a number of modern and sporty styling elements. The digital instrumentation is located directly in front of the driver. Information from the navigation, in-car entertainment, and climate control systems is displayed on a monitor located in the center of the T-shaped dashboard. Silver resin panels add to the sporty taste of the interior.
3. Ecology
   (1) GDI--Turbocharger powertrain
   
   SUW Active uses the high-response, low-consumption GDI--Turbo powertrain, one of the systems in the GDI SIGMA Series that melds the GDI engine and advanced drivetrain technologies to maximize the benefits of gasoline direct injection. The GDI--Turbo uses 2-stage mixture control technology to deliver improved low-end and mid-range torque without sacrificing mileage. And, because the engine operates under ultra-lean conditions at low engine loads, more air passes through the turbine and thus reduces turbo lag. It also complies with the Japanese fuel efficiency standards for 2010.
   
   (2) .Resource conservation and recycling
   
   The GDI engine is not the only element that helps SUW Active achieve its goal of being eco-friendly in a big way. This concept model also makes extensive use of new materials that do not pollute nature as well as of recycled materials. Natural coloring pigment is used in the bumpers, fender protectors and side sill panels, as well as in the dashboard and interior trim.
4. Safety
   (1) RISE: advanced crash-safety body
   
   SUW Active uses Mitsubishi's own RISE (Realized Impact Safety Evolution) body construction that combines a high energy-absorbing front section with a rigid cabin cell structure to provide omnidirectional occupant safety in a crash.
   
   Other safety features include a pillar design that alleviates damage to the head in a crash, SRS airbags for driver and front passenger, and side airbags housed in the front seats that provide supplemental occupant protection in a side crash.
   
   (2) Run-flat tires enhance safety
   
   SUW Active uses the latest type of run-flat tire on regular rims. Capable of being driven with a puncture at a speed of 90 km/h for distances of up to 80 km, this type of tire eliminates the need to change wheel immediately after a puncture.
5. Packaging and utility
   (1) Stress-free packaging
   
   The body measures 4,240-mm long, 1,745-mm wide and 1,535-mm high. At 610mm above ground level, the hip point puts front seat occupants at a natural height, while wide-opening front and rear doors allow contortion-free entry and egress.
   
   (2) Generous occupant space, clever cargo room
   
   SUW Active maximizes interior space with a front-side walkthru, 6:4-split rear seatback that folds down in a single action and an under-floor stowage section in the luggage compartment that houses a folding bike.
   
   (3) Packed with convenience-enhancing ideas
   
   A front sunroof panel that slides open on top of the roof and a large glass roof panel at the rear make the roomy cabin airier, brighter and more comfortable.
   
   Provision of small item stowage is ample and includes a glove compartment in the dashboard opposite the front passenger and pockets in front and rear doors. Other convenience enhancing features include a tray for small items in the central armrest and in the dashboard.